Dairy producers in the upper Midwest are hopeful a bill that would create an H-2C Immigration Program can be passed through Congress. The AG Act is being offered by House Judiciary Committee Chair Bob Goodlatte and would offers experienced, unauthorized agricultural workers the ability to attain legal work status and travel to and from the U.S.
Rock Rapids, Iowa dairy producer Evan Metzger says the H-2C program is a workable solution to provide year-round labor in the milking parlor. Currently, those workers are only able to work three to six months.
South Dakota Dairy Producers Association President Marv Post says the H-2C program will incorporate the E-Verify program for agricultural employers and is the best solution for immigration that’s been offered in years.
Post says while it will be a challenge to pass the AG Act in an election year, there is growing support in the House.
Currently there is no companion bill in the Senate, but officials are optimistic about finding a sponsor.
